Former NFL star LeSean McCoy and development partners have completed and opened an affordable housing project in uptown Harrisburg. The development provides much-needed affordable housing options in the state capital and represents a significant investment in community development by the former Eagles running back.
Firepoint Energy has completed the acquisition of XcelPlus International (XLPI) and is preparing for a reverse merger. The energy company's strategic acquisition and restructuring moves position it for expanded operations in the renewable energy sector.
Pennsylvania lawmakers are debating legislation to create a state board to oversee new energy projects, addressing the ongoing tension between state and local control over renewable energy siting. The proposed bill would establish statewide oversight while requiring developers to inform local officials about project impacts and community benefits. Pennsylvania is currently one of only 12 states without a state agency to review renewable energy project approvals, leading to calls for streamlined permitting processes.
Senator McCormick discusses Pennsylvania's promising energy future in this audio interview, highlighting the state's potential for growth in both traditional and renewable energy sectors. The discussion covers Pennsylvania's strategic position in the national energy landscape and opportunities for job creation in the evolving energy economy. McCormick emphasizes the importance of an all-of-the-above energy approach for Pennsylvania's economic development.
Environmental advocates are concerned that pending federal budget legislation could undermine Pennsylvania's clean energy initiatives and renewable energy progress. The potential impacts on state-level programs and incentives are being closely monitored as Congress debates funding priorities. The outcome could significantly affect Pennsylvania's ability to meet its renewable energy goals and climate commitments, particularly as the state works to increase renewable energy from 8% to 30% by 2030.
A Pennsylvania farming operation has successfully integrated solar energy into its agricultural activities, showcasing the growing trend of agrivoltaics in the state. The project demonstrates how farms can maintain agricultural production while generating renewable energy through raised solar panels that allow farming and livestock grazing to continue beneath. This approach helps farmers diversify income streams while contributing to Pennsylvania's goal of reaching 10% solar power generation by 2030, which will require an estimated 124 square miles of solar installations.
Centre County has secured nearly $700,000 in funding for affordable housing initiatives, supporting the region's efforts to address housing accessibility and affordability challenges. The funding will help develop housing solutions for working families and vulnerable populations in the area. This investment aligns with broader Pennsylvania economic development strategies that include housing as a key component of sustainable community growth and workforce development.
Volvo Construction Equipment announces a $40 million investment over five years to expand manufacturing at its Shippensburg, Pennsylvania facility. The expansion will increase production capacity for excavators and loaders, driven by growing demand and the need to improve supply chain logistics while reducing reliance on long-distance shipping.
York College of Pennsylvania breaks ground on an expansion of Northside Commons residence hall, adding a new wing to house over 200 additional students. The project includes air conditioning, multipurpose areas, and upgraded furniture, with completion scheduled for next summer. College officials emphasize their commitment to investing in student facilities while many institutions are scaling back.
The Pennsylvania Senate Labor and Industry Committee unanimously approved Senate Bill 72, strengthening protections for construction workers who are misclassified as independent contractors. The bipartisan legislation aims to combat worker misclassification in the construction industry and ensures proper employee protections and benefits.